Sub-par work leads to delay in Cam River Bridge construction, with Labor critical of hold-ups

Works on a new bridge in the northwest have been held up after an element of the construction was found to be subpar, with Labor criticising the government over the project’s delay.

Cam River bridge at Somerset, which will be replaced.

The road base on the new Cam River Bridge will need additional work after it was found to be subpar.

As a result, the new westbound lane on the bridge remains closed, with the traffic switch expected to occur in early January.

The construction of the new Cam River Bridge at Somerset has been tumultuous.

In October 2022, the original bridge was damaged during floods, resulting in long commuter delays.

The new bridge is expected to be completed in April.

Braddon Labor MHA Anita Dow said the community was getting frustrated over the delays to the bridge’s construction.

“It has been almost 18 months since work on the new bridge started and patience is starting to fade for local commuters,” Ms Dow said.

“The Cam River Bridge is a major freight route and thoroughfare for families and workers, locals want certainty on a second crossing and the completion of the new bridge.”

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the government would inform the community about bridge works.

“We acknowledge the disruption to North West road users and thank them for their understanding and patience as we deliver for our new flood-resilient bridge,” Mr Ferguson said.

“The new bridge will be much stronger and more capable of withstanding stronger floods, ensuring our communities west of Cooee are not inconvenienced in this way ever again.”

Deputy Premier Michael Ferguson. Final question time in the Tasmanian parliament for 2023. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Mr Ferguson also said it was looking into the feasibility of a second crossing for the Cam River.

“Public feedback closed recently, and the Department of State Growth is now collating the feedback from the community.

“We have received a fantastic response from the community, and initial data indicates that more than 1,300 people visited our interactive online map. In addition, we have gathered varying amounts of feedback through the community drop-in sessions and via phone calls and email.

“The feedback will form part of the second Cam River crossing feasibility study, which looks at the impacts of a potential new crossing and the pros and cons of locations identified.

“It will take some time for the project team to collate and analyse the feedback and understand the key themes that emerge. Once this is done, we will publish the results in a summary consultation report, which is expected to be in 2024.”

Mr Ferguson criticised Ms Dow for her comments about the Cam River Bridge construction.

“As usual, Labor’s armchair criticism shows they have nothing to offer.

“Their unhelpful attacks actually demoralise working contractors and undermine the appreciation most people have for the team when they are doing a great job for our community.”